Riding a motorcycle has always been considered a symbol of freedom on the open roads. With the feeling of wind breezing by and speeding through the roadways, riding motorcycles can be an exciting and thrilling experience. But, like with all vehicles, safety measures must be prioritized when navigating the streets. Being that a motorcycle only has 2 wheels and is considerably smaller than cars and larger trucks, special precautions must be taken to ensure a smooth and easy ride.
Since motorcycles do not have seatbelts or airbags, riders have to wear specialized equipment to keep themselves safe from injury. A responsible motorcyclist should always wear a helmet. As a cyclist, all of your body is exposed to the elements, but your head is the most critical part that is most susceptible to physical harm in cases of impact with objects and other vehicles. Also, add sunglasses or visors to your wearable must-haves list. Not only do the high winds impact the quality of your vision on the road, but the sun can also damage your eyesight when you do not have protective eyewear. Without the sense of sight, you endanger not only yourself but everyone on the road with you.
Also, consider wearing clothes with padding and protective materials within them for whole body safety. Other wearable protective gear can include “heavy leather or synthetic gloves, long pants and jacket, and over-the-ankle leather boots,” (TulsaInsuranceGuy).
Like with any vehicle, before you take your motorcycle out for a spin, you must inspect your engine levels to see if you have enough gas to make it to your destination if your lights are working properly, that the horn is audible and loud enough for others to hear, that the brakes are functioning, and that the motorcycles’ structural frame has ample support. Now, it is time to hit the road.
As you ride, you will eventually come into the vicinity of other vehicles that are much larger than your motorcycle. It is your job to be visible to other vehicles at all times. You do not stand a chance if an 18-wheeler hits you, much less another smaller car. Always have the headlights turned on, no matter if it is morning, noon, or night. Also, be aware of possible blind spots and areas. Your engine might be loud, but it might not be enough to alert others of where you are on the road.
Last but not least, never drive drunk. No matter if you are driving a car, truck, or motorcycle, it is never o.k. To hit the road after unwinding with a glass of your favorite alcoholic drink. This is an especially important tip for motorcyclists to follow since they are more exposed and more susceptible to serious injury if they lose control and crash. Alcohol is a depressant which means that the more your drink, the less alert your reflexes become. Not being able to react accordingly to sudden movements of other vehicles or changes on the road provides a greater chance of a serious accident occurring.